810.20 Defense/3149: Telegram
The Ambassador in Colombia (Lane) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 15—4:07 a.m.]
1050. Yesterday Military and Naval Attachés had conversation with newly appointed Minister of War28 at latter’s request during which the Minister made following requests:
- (1)
- That we establish hydroplane service between Cartagena and San Andrés to provide at least one round trip a week for the purpose [Page 160] of furnishing certain vital items of food and medical supplies required by Colombian army troops and civilian population there.
- (2)
- That we furnish aerial transportation for Colombian officer to San Andrés and return to mainland for the purpose of surveying present situation and needs of Archipelago.
- (3)
- That at least part of Colombia’s order for six Catalina flying boats be filled at once.
When it was pointed out to the Minister that such a service would necessitate arrangements at Cartagena for refueling and maintenance of aircraft employed in this service the Minister stated that he would wish us to take advantage of this situation to patrol coast line of Colombia and thus make airplane serve double purpose to mutual interest of our two countries.
I recommend that no action be taken on these requests pending approval of our request mentioned in my telegram No. 1049, August 14, 7 p.m.
- José Joaquín Castro Martínez.↩